Station shops signal green shoots of economic recovery

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), operator of Great Northern and Thameslink, has welcomed two new retail businesses to Hatfield station.

Kerbside Coffee has opened its latest branch in a retail unit that had been empty for over two years, and Budgens supermarket is now trading in a unit vacant for several months.

The Hatfield businesses are part of a wave of new lettings across the GTR network, which the train company sees as a sign of strong recovery in local economies after the effects of the Covid pandemic. With around 350 retail units on its network in total, GTR signed almost 60 tenancy agreements last year and now has over 60 more in progress, many involving units that have been vacant for two years or more.

David Gornall, GTR’s Commercial Director, said: “It’s heartening to see our stations’ retail businesses bouncing back after such a difficult period. With the recovery in passenger numbers, station retail units are again being seen as good opportunities for thriving trade.

“And of course, it’s great news for rail users. We can offer our customers better facilities and a better journey experience, and the station becomes a more valuable asset for the community it serves. Over the next few months, we’ll be announcing a great variety of high-quality retail openings at stations across the network.”

Jason Harris, founder of Kerbside Coffee, said: "We're beyond excited to bring the Kerbside Coffee experience to Hatfield station. Our mission has always been to serve exceptional coffee, freshly baked goods and super tasty treats while creating a space where people can come together. We believe in the power of coffee to bring people together, and we're committed to making a positive impact in Hatfield. Hatfield is a vibrant community, and we can't wait to be a part of it - we want to be a place where locals and commuters alike feel a sense of belonging."

Mary Lowe of the Hatfield Association of Rail Travellers said: “There was great unhappiness among rail users and local residents when the previous supermarket closed last year, leading to a public meeting with GTR attended by almost 60 people in November. We are very pleased that things moved on quickly following that meeting and that these two businesses have now opened. We are working with both to promote community involvement and are grateful to Jason for hosting a book-swap facility in the coffee shop.”

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Notes to editors

More about Kerbside Coffee

Kerbside Coffee, the independent coffee shop with a passion for quality brews and community connection, is thrilled to announce the opening of its new store at Hatfield station.

The new store aims to be more than just a coffee destination. It seeks to become an integral part of the local community by fostering relationships, supporting local initiatives, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through its doors.

Kerbside Coffee has always prioritized sustainability, and the new store is no exception. The coffee shop will continue its commitment to sourcing ethically and locally whenever possible, ensuring that each cup served reflects both quality and responsibility.